Kent State University's tight end Casey Pierce (7) o is jammed at the line of scrimmage by defensive back Jordan Italiano (23) during a team drill at practice at Dix Stadium in Kent in Aug. 2014. ( David Dermer/Special to the Akron Beacon Journal)

Kent State University tight end Casey Pierce runs a route while taking part in a drill on the first day of spring practice in April. (Ed Suba Jr./Akron Beacon Journal)

Kent State University tight end Casey Pierce (right) prepares to run a route while taking part in a drill on the first day of spring practice at Dix Stadium. (Ed Suba Jr./Akron Beacon Journal)